Messages and Updates

Dear December Graduates,  

Congratulations on earning your degree! Your success represents sacrifice, commitment, hard work and determination, and now it is nearly time to celebrate all that you have accomplished.  

As the big day approaches, we wanted to share some of the most important information you will need to make Commencement or your Graduate Hooding a memorable occasion for you, your friends, your family, and the entire college community. We encourage you to review the information below and save this message for future reference. Please be sure to visit Ithaca College’s December Commencement website for the latest information and updates. Additional questions can be sent to commencement@ithaca.edu.

• Doors open at 9:00 a.m.; graduates should arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. and guests should be seated by 9:30 a.m.
   
• Alcohol is prohibited; bags are discouraged and subject to screening.
   
• The south, east and west entrances of the A&E Center will be available for graduate use. Accessible drop-off and entry are available through the east entrance.

• Cap and gown are required  for all graduates to gain entry to the arena. Graduate students should also bring their hoods (for master’s students).
   
• Regalia may be purchased either in person or online at the Ithaca College Campus Store.
   
• Questions regarding regalia should be directed to the Campus Store; please call (607) 274-3959 during business hours Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

• Your GradPass from Tassel is required for check-in. To access your GradPass, log in to your Tassel account, click the “View” button for the December Commencement Ceremony, then click the “Print GradPass” button on the right side of the screen. You can bring a physical copy of your GradPass or a digital copy on your phone. If you are utilizing your phone, please make sure it is sufficiently charged as you will need to show your GradPass again when you go up to the stage during the ceremony.
   
• Check in at the tables on the floor level of Glazer Arena to receive your class medallion.
   
• Master’s degree candidates will line up first for the procession, in order by school, and then by major within that school.
   
• Undergraduates should line up for the procession either in front of or behind the individuals they would like to be seated with. You will not cross the stage in alphabetical order or by school, so be sure to text your family when it's close to your time to cross the stage!

• You will present your GradPass as you line up near the stage. Your name will be read as you cross the stage during the latter part of the ceremony. Ushers will let you know when it’s your turn to head toward the stage.
   
• Master’s degree candidates will cross first and be hooded on stage. Make sure your hood is with you. Learn more about how to properly fold, carry, and hold your hood.
   
• While on stage, you will receive your diploma cover. Actual diplomas will be mailed to the address you provided on your application for degree in late January or early February.
   

• Professional photographers from Island Photography will capture the following the images:
  • A candid image as you cross the stage.
  • A posed photo behind the stage.
     
• Ordering details will be sent to your IC email within two weeks. 

• Graduates will find a printed copy of the official Commencement program on their chairs.
   
• Guests will receive a printed order of events that includes a QR code and link to access the full program online.
   
• The full program will also be available to download and print at no charge through the December Commencement website.

• Completing the First Destination Survey is a required task  in order to receive your diploma! The survey takes less than five minutes to complete.
   
• The survey provides Ithaca College with important information about your post-graduation plans. Not sure what you’re doing yet? It’s okay to tell us that and go back later to update your survey once your plans are in place.